Kalina Armenliiska Finds a Cat’s Character in “Paws & Whiskers”

“Paws & Whiskers” comes from taking an ordinary source of inspiration and treating it with musical curiosity. London-based pianist and composer Kalina Armenliiska turns her kitten’s behaviour into a solo piano piece that moves between tenderness, curiosity, and mischief without forcing a literal story.

The composition’s strongest quality is its movement. Beginning in A-flat major, Armenliiska uses flowing melodies to create calm before unexpected harmonic shifts introduce uncertainty and playfulness. Touches of D minor interrupt the sweetness enough to suggest a cat exploring its surroundings. One moment feels still; the next seems ready to leap.

The recording is intimate. Armenliiska captured the piece at home with a digital piano and audio software, applying only minor limiting and normalisation. The modest production suits the composition because the piano remains central. There is no unnecessary studio decoration competing with the emotional idea.

“Paws & Whiskers” also offers a revealing glimpse into Armenliiska’s development. She describes her compositions as amateur work created primarily for personal expression, with her daughter, family, friends, and colleagues forming her audience. That honesty gives the release its charm. This is not music chasing commercial importance; it is an attempt to transform everyday affection into something lasting.

The result is simple without being empty. Armenliiska captures the warmth, unpredictability, and playful personality of feline companionship while developing her musical voice. Her decision to learn Cubase points toward greater technical refinement. “Paws & Whiskers” stands as a reminder that meaningful music can emerge from small domestic moments when curiosity, affection, and observation lead the composition.